15 May 2017

LET THERE BE LIGHT // INTERIOR INSPIRATION

Image source Elle UK

I have this thing with windows. Yes I'm a Let there be light type of girl and the more the better. It's no wonder that the last few flats I rented were Georgian with huge sash windows, and the secret of it is I've been thoroughly spoilt. We've been looking on the property market for almost a year now and many a good size space has been give the no-go from me due to its tiny windows or dark shadowy rooms, enough to make Paul roll his eyes for sure.

So in the hopes of creating some wriggle room in my brain I've been trying to come up with alternative ways to let there be light in spaces that I might have previously dismissed, or at least share a bit of light interior inspiration to look back on if we ever actually buy anywhere!

USE OVER SIZED MIRRORS

This feels a bit like I'm telling my grandma how to suck eggs, or however that weird saying goes, but truly one of the best tricks in the books when it comes to bringing light into the home is to use well placed mirrors. I love the idea of large statement pieces that bounce natural light across the room and also act as a piece of wall eye candy.

USE CLEVER LIGHTING

When you find your dealing with a space with no natural light then get creative with the lighting. Using under unit strip lights can really make a small dingy space look modern, clean fresh and full of light, especially if you use a light reflective paint like this or high gloss tiles.

USE SKYLIGHTS OR GLASS CEILINGS

Whether you splash out and go all glass or opt for a more affordable skylight option, this is one of the quickest ways to flood your home with light, while potentially adding value to your property. Contemporary glass side returns are hugely popular right now as it allows you to extend your home and create light, using previous dead space.

Equally popular is using skylight windows such as VELUX to bring pools of light into once dark areas. This is particularly ideal for kitchens, attic bedrooms and bathrooms with a wow factory, just be sure to fit them with some VELUX blinds for a bit of modesty if you live in a built up area.

CREATE A CLEVER STAIRCASE

Whether you make a bold statement like this floating staircase or use a more minimal effect with a glass banister, removing a wall and replacing it with something that allows the light to pass through will instantly help in lower floor properties or internal stairwells. If you are worried this might cost a fortune you could always use built in wall spotlights on each step.

I love some of these ideas, especially the stairs as it gives a really contemporary sleek style. I'm hoping that applying a few of these ideas when looking around properties will allow us to find what we're looking for... and if all else fails we'll have to opt for lots of daylight bulbs. eek!